Alyssa Ortega

• Adult & Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED, American Red Cross, 2028-04-01
• Google/Coursera Certificate - Assess for Success: Marketing Analytics and Measurement, 2026
• California Food Handler Certification
• Volunteer Crisis Counselor Training — Crisis Text Line (June 2026) Successfully completed intensive training in crisis intervention, active listening, suicide prevention, de-escalation, and confidential text-based support.

• California FFA State Proficiency Winner (2024) in Environmental Science and Natural Resource Management, recognized for outstanding achievement in environmental research, laboratory work, water quality analysis, and agricultural science leadership.
• Barbara James Service Award Gold Medal Recipient through HOSA, recognized for exceptional commitment to healthcare leadership, mental health advocacy, community service, and youth outreach initiatives.
• Academic Decathlon Highest Score in the Scholastic Division, with state-level recognition in Social Science and Music, demonstrating academic excellence across multiple disciplines and strong competitive achievement.
• Greater San Diego Science and Engineering Fair participant, conducted environmental science research with a local laboratory and received the “Advancing the World of Health Award” for scientific excellence and innovation.
• Nominated for Broadcom Masters Science Fair for outstanding scientific research and environmental science innovation.
• First Place in Water Issues Contest through FFA, recognized for strong knowledge in environmental policy, water conservation, and agricultural sustainability.
• Fifth Place in Economics Contest through FFA, demonstrating analytical thinking and understanding of economic systems and business principles.
• Seventh Place in Veterinary Science Contest through FFA, showcasing knowledge in animal science, veterinary care, and agricultural health practices.
• Academic Decathlon Member (4 years), Officer (2 years), demonstrating leadership, academic discipline, and excellence across multiple subject areas.
• HOSA Member (4 years), Officer (2 years), actively involved in healthcare leadership, public health advocacy, and service-based initiatives.
• Youth Tobacco Committee Member (2 years), advocated for tobacco prevention, youth health awareness, and community education initiatives.
• Freshman Class President, led student events and initiatives that promoted school spirit, student involvement, and leadership development.
• Varsity Tennis Captain, demonstrated leadership, discipline, teamwork, and commitment both on and off the court.
• Orchestra Member (6 years), played both violin and contrabass/double bass, demonstrating discipline, consistency, and long-term commitment to the performing arts.
• Varsity Swim and Basketball athlete, showing strong time management, discipline, teamwork, and dedication to competitive athletics alongside academic achievement.

• FFA California State Proficiency Winner, Environmental Science and Natural Resources
• Highest score in the scholastic division of the academic decathlon
• Chapter Degree - FFA
• First place in water issues contest, 5th place in economics contest, 7th in veterinary contest
• 3rd in social science and music in the state level for academic decathlon

• Freshman Class President, 1 year, Led class events, promoting a sense of unity and school spirit
• FFA, 2 years, Managed and cared for animals (rabbit and lamb)
• Orchestra, 6 years, Played two instruments: violin and contrabass/double bass
• Varsity Tennis, 3 years, 1 year, Demonstrated leadership on and off the court
• Varsity Swim, 2-3 years, Showcased commitment and discipline in competitive swimming
• Varsity and JV Basketball, 2 years, Contributed to team success through skill and dedication

• Greater San Diego Science and Engineering Fair, Conducted environmental science analysis with a local laboratory, Advancing the World of Health Award, $200
• Nominated for Broadcom Masters Science Fair, Acknowledged for outstanding scientific research
• Internship at Brawley Analytical Inc., Gained hands-on experience in environmental analysis, Microbology: E. Coli, Coliform Bacteria, Testing Analysis and media Preparation, Wet Chemistry Analysis: Inorganic chemistry / Organic chemistry, Nutrient Testing in wastewater testing, Participated in a state laboratory audit and yearly internal laboratory audits
• Current agriscience/science fair project on environmental sciences, water analysis and the impact of toxicity on growth
• Active participant in FFA, HOSA, and ACADEC competitions
• Involved in projects with a laboratory testing alfalfa for nutritional needs of farmers

I’m currently a student at University of California, Santa Cruz pursuing my degree while building experience in healthcare, business, and community leadership. My journey has been shaped by a strong passion for helping others, creating meaningful change, and continuously challenging myself to grow both personally and professionally.

I currently work as a Behavioral Interventionist, where I support children and families through Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), helping create positive behavioral outcomes and meaningful progress in their daily lives. This role has strengthened my communication, leadership, patience, and problem-solving skills while deepening my passion for healthcare and service.

Alongside my professional experience, I have a strong background in environmental science research, leadership, and community involvement. Through internships in environmental laboratory work, FFA, HOSA, Academic Decathlon, and volunteer work within my community, I developed a deep appreciation for discipline, teamwork, and purpose-driven work. Being recognized as a California FFA State Proficiency Winner in Environmental Science and Natural Resource Management further reinforced my passion for creating impact through both science and leadership.

I am passionate about the intersection of healthcare, business strategy, and long-term leadership. Whether through behavioral health, public service, or future opportunities in medicine and management, I strive to be someone who leads with empathy, works with purpose, and continues learning every step of the way.